Rugby league ‘Immortal’ Wally Lewis has decided to step aside from his sports presenter role at 9News Queensland to prioritise his health.
’The King’ announced he would instead pursue other opportunities within the 9Network as well as focus on his community and charity work.
Lewis, 63, is regarded as one of Australia’s greatest athletes and forged an impressive 23 year career in television before declaring it was time for a change of pace.
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“My health has made decisions for me in the past so it’s my turn to make decisions for my health,” Lewis said.
“While I’ll take more of a backseat role in the studio, 9News viewers can still expect me to keep them up to date on the highs and lows of local and international sport, and of course share my weekly NRL tips.
“Beyond 9News, I’ll continue to call Wide World of Sports home, and there are some special Nine programs in the pipeline that I’m also ready to tackle alongside my ongoing involvement with the QRL (Queensland Rugby League) and Former Origin Greats.
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“It’s safe to say that no two weeks in my calendar will look the same this year, which is what I’m looking forward to most.”
Nine’s Queensland director of news Amanda Paterson hailed the contribution Lewis has made.
“The King is well and truly here to stay. He continues to live up to being a legend on and off the field, and whether he is on the news desk or not, viewers will still get to welcome the Wally they know and love into their living rooms.
“Wally is such an integral member of our newsroom and we are privileged to have him on our team. His health is and has always been our priority, so we are proud of him for making the call to put himself first.”
Lewis’ replacement on the 9News Queensland desk will be announced in coming weeks.
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